Ironing apparatus

ABSTRACT

An ironing apparatus which compactly and unitarily comprises an iron, an ironing board, collapsible support structures for each of the said iron and ironing board, and a casing of relatively small volume for containing the same. Frame means are fixed within said casing for mounting said support structures which, when in operative condition, presents said ironing board in extended condition and with the iron suspended thereabove. Said support structures being easily manipulated for movement into said operative condition from collapsed or inoperative position wherein the same are fully received within the closed casing for facile transportability and storage in minimum space. The support structures are each uniquely composed with a plurality of cooperating links and with said support structures being interengageable when the apparatus is in disuse.

United States Patent 191 Foster et al.

i 1 IRONING APPARATUS [75] Inventors: Edwin E. Foster; Wilbur A. Foster;

- Thomas E. Foster, all of Austin,

' 3,699 673 10/i972 Fosteretal ..3x/30 Primary Examiner -Geo. V Larkin Attorne Agent, or Firm-Ralph W. Kalish {if 4 1% V [Z8 A x 26 :5 I19 I 143 i0 1 J09 1 vJan. 28, 1975 57 ABSTRACT An ironing apparatus which compactly and unitarily comprises an iron, an ironing board. collapsible support structures for each of the said iron and ironing board, and a casing of relatively small volume for containing the same. Frame means are fixed within said casing for mounting said support structures which. when in operative condition, presents said ironing board in extended condition and with the iron suspended thereabove. Said support structures being easily manipulated for movement into said operative condition from collapsed or inoperative position wherein the same are fully received within the closed casing for facile transportability and storage in minimum space. The support structures are each uniquely composed with a plurality of cooperating links and with said support structures being interengageable when the apparatus is in disuse.

18 Claims, 22- Drawing Figures PATENTED JAN 28 I975,

FIGZI.

FIG. 2

PATEMEB 3,862,503

' SHEET DEUF 10 PATENTED JAN 2 8 i975 SHEET 03 F 10 FIG. 5

PATENTED 3,862,503

I sum U 40F10 PAIENTE JANZ 8 i975 SHEEI DSUF 10 FIG.8

PATENTED M28 I975 SHEET UBUF 1O FIG. 9

PATENTED JAH28IQ75 SHEET O8UF 1O FIG. 13

PATENIED JAN 2 8 ISIS SHEET 08 0F 10 FIG. I8

FIG. 17

IRONING APPARATUS BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION vide an ironing apparatus of the type stated wherein the ironing board, when extended, is of full conventional size but which is adapted for collapsing into compact form; there being novel support means for facile moving of said board into extended, operative, stabilized condition, and which means are as easily effective for returning said board to collapsed, inoperative condition.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which embodies a unique support linkage for the iron so as to present same above the board in operative position and to permit of collapsing for snug reception within the casing when closed; said linkage being easily disposed in operative, iron-supporting condition and as easily returned to collapsed condition so that the operator is occasioned no physical hardship in usage.

It is a still further object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which incorporates unique means for maintaining the components in operative condition to avoid any inadvertent, accidental premature collapsing and with such means being easily manipulated by the user so that when desired the said components may be disposed for return to collapsed, stored condition within the casing.

It is another object of the-present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which permits of the user remaining in a seated condition for effecting movement of the components into operative condition, for ironing usage, and for restoration of the components into casing-received condition so that a user of limited strength or advanced years could utilize the ironing apparatus with physical ease and effectiveness.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which embodies a unique support linkage for an iron which is of lightweight, but sturdy, and with the components being so inter-related that the same smoothly swing into operative extended condition and therefrom into a compactly folded state.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which embodies a unique ironing board support structure with mechanical means for maintaining same in reliable supporting condition.

. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which is of relatively simple construction, having a minimum of parts fabricated from durable materials so as to render said apparatus resistant to breakdown; which is economical in production; which is extremely reliable in usage; and the usage of which eliminates the heretofore accepted inconvenience associated with storing of ironing boards and ironers.

It is a still further object of the present invention to provide an ironing apparatus of the type stated which will permit of the usage of any selected type of iron, such as the dry or steam type; and the operation of which requires only connection to the customary wall socket.

In the Drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the fully closed casing of an ironing apparatus constructed in accordance with and embodying the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the casing in opened condition but illustrating the operative components of the ironing apparatus in full retracted, inoperative condition.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the ironing apparatus with the ironing board in operative condition and with the iron and associated linkage in stored or inoperative condition.

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view of the ironing board with one end section in upwardly swung condition.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the ironing apparatus in full, operative condition, but with the iron support pending usage.

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary perspective view of the iron in operative disposition upon the ironing board.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged side elevational view taken on the line 77 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a vertical view taken on the line 88 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged vertical view taken on the line 99 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a horizontal transverse sectional view taken on the line 10-10 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a vertical fragmentary view taken on the line 11-11 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a vertical fragmentary view taken on the line 12-12 of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a horizontal view taken on the line 13-1 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 14 is a vertical view taken on the line 14-14 of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a vertical view taken substantially on the line 14-14 of FIG. [3, illustrating one end section of the ironing board in upwardly swung condition.

FIG. 16 is a side view, taken on the line 16-16 of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a vertical view taken on the line 17-17 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 18 is a vertical view taken substantially on the line l7--17 of FIG. 3, but illustrating the main support arm of the iron support linkage in raised condition.

FIG. 19 is avertical view taken on the line 1919 of FIG. 18, but with the motor housing closure removed.

FIG. 20 is a vertical view taken on the line 2020 of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged fragmentary view taken on the line 2121 of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a wiring diagram of the control circuit for the iron raising and lowering mechanism.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now by reference characters to the drawings which illustrate the practical embodiments of the present invention, A generally designates an ironing apparatus which unitarily comprises an ironing board b, a support structure therefor indicated broadly c, an iron d, support linkage for said iron 1, a raising and lowering mechanism ffor said iron and a casing k fixedly integrated with said components and dimensioned for snugly receiving same when in inoperative condition.

Casing k comprises narrow parallel top and bottom walls 1,2, respectively, relatively wide side walls 3,4 and parallel end walls 5,5 said top wall 1 and end walls 5,5 are constituted of flanges 6,7 extending continuously throughout the adjacent edges of side walls 3,4; said flange 6 being of relatively greater extent than flange 7. Each side wall 3,4 along its normally lower transverse edge is hingedly engaged to the adjacent side edge of bottom wall 2 as by pintles (not shown) received with cooperating knuckles 8 whereby said side ,walls are swingable upwardly toward each other into casing-closed condition (FIG. 1) and downwardly away from each other for flatwise disposition upon a support surface, such as a floor, (FIG. 2) for providing a stabilizing base for apparatus A when in operative condition (FIG. 3).

Cooperating latch members 9,10 are mounted upon the portions of flanges 6,7, respectively, constituting top wall 1 for securing casing k in closed condition. A handle 1 1 is suitably mounted upon top wall 1 for facilitating transportability.

For purposes of facilitating description of the present invention, end wall 5 will be considered the forward end of apparatus A, that is, toward the right hand side of FIG. 5. Thus, the portion of apparatus A nearest the operator will be deemed the forward side.

Mounted adjacent each end edge of bottom wall 2 is an angle-shaped support bracket 12,12, the vertical flanges of which are axially parallel with the adjacent end edge and against the inner faces thereof abut the opposite ends of a relatively thick-walled tubular base member 13, preferably of square cross section, fixed on bottom wall 2 and extending lengthwise thereof proximate the edge adjacent side wall 3. At its forward end, base member 13 rigidly mounts the support structure c for ironing board b, and at its other, or rearward end,

abuts, in lateral support thereof, iron raising and lowering mechanism f (FIGS. 3 and 7). Ironing board support structure 0 comprises an upright 14, which is preferably also of tubular stock, square in cross section, and being welded or otherwise secured at its lower end to base member 13; the height of said upright 14 being less than the major dimension of side walls 3,4. At its upper end, upright 14 is provided with aligned openings, as at 15, in its lateral walls for journalling therein of a shaft about which said upright 14 is rotatable and which shaft is fixedly received within registering openings, as at 17, in the opposed walls at the lower end of a support arm 18, which latter swings with said shaft 16. The opposite or upper end of support arm 18 is swingably mounted upon the extended end portion of a shaft 19 which is journalled within openings provided in the opposed sides of a tubular frame element 20 fixed to the undersurface of the top plate-forming portion 21 of the central section 22 of ironing board b; said frame element extending from the front to the rear side thereof. Support arm 18 is cut away, as at 23. at its upper end to expose the upper portions of its side walls which contain openings (not shown) forming bearings for the extended end of said shaft 19. Encircling said shaft 19 between the side walls of support arm 18 is a compression spring 24, the outer end of which is secured to said support arm 18 and with its inner end portion 25 being fixed within an opening formed in frame element 20 (see FIG. 13).

Fixed upon the end of shaft 19, remote from support arm 18, is the upper end of a link 26, the lower end of which is pivotally engaged upon the projecting end of a shaft 27 extending transversely through upright 14 and being journalled at its ends in the opposed side walls thereof (FIG. 8). Link 26 is immediately adjacent upright 14 with its lower end being located on the side thereof toward side wall 3; and with said shaft 27 being located within the general intermediate zone of upright 14. Link 26 is provided with an opening 28 in its portion proximate the upper end of upright 14 for reception therein of a tongue 29 of an ironing board stabiliz ing member 30, as will be described more fully hereinbelow.

Upwardly of shaft 16, and downwardly of ironing board central section 22, support arm 18 carries a transversely extending shaft 31 axially parallel to shafts 16,27; said shaft 31 being journalled in openings provided in the opposed side walls of support arm [8 for extension at its ends beyond such walls (see FIG. 8).

As shown in FIGS. 8, l4 and 15, there is engaged at each end of shaft 31 bifurcated swivel connectors 32,33 secured to the lower ends of struts 32',33', respectively. Strut 33' at its other end is connected by means of a swivel head 34 to the frame portion 35 of end section 36 of ironing board b; while strut 32' is connected to end section 37 of ironing board b in a manner to be described. Each end section 36,37 is pivotally connected along adjacent transverse margins by hinges 38,39, respectively, as of the piano type, each having one of its leafs 38',39', respectively, fixed to the adjacent flange 40 of the central section 22 whereby said end sections 36,37 are movable from folded condition into coplanar relationship with said central section 22 to present an ironing surface, and with said sections 36, 22, 37 being of such dimensions that the same, when extended, cause the resulting board b to be of like size as a conventional ironing board. End sections 36,37 are pivotally engaged to the proximate ends of a plate p carried at the extremities of frame element 20, as by rivets p. When ironing board b is in operative position, struts 32',33' will maintain the constituent sections in aligned condition. By means of hinge rods 38,39 said end sections 36,37 may be swung downwardly with respect to central section 22 through an angle of substantially (see FIG. 2) for presenting said board b in compact, retracted condition for storage.

Referring to FIGS. 7, 14 and 15, it will be seen that strut 33' is of unitary rod construction, while strut 32' is of two-part character, having a normally lower rod or male section 41 and an upper sleeve or female section 42 adapted to receive said former section 41; there being provided at the end of rod 41 within sleeve 42, an enlarged head 43. The lower end of sleeve 42 is constricted, as at 44, to prevent accidental loss of engagement with said rod 41. The upper end of sleeve 42 is bifurcated, as at 45, to provide swingable engagement, by

means of a pivot pin 46, with one end of an arm 47 extending through aligned openings within a tubular frame member 48 of end section 37, said member being axially parallel to frame 20 of central section 22. Arm 47 is rigidly fixed within said frame member 48 by means of a bolt 49 and projects at its opposite end, as at 50, beyond said frame member 48, for purposes to be presently described.

Tension spring 51 is connected at its ends between rod 41 of strut 32' and a post 52 carried on a collar 53 mounted on the adjacent end portion of shaft 31 for biasing said strut 32 toward arm 18 to enhance the supportive action of said strut 32. With reference to FIG. 15, it will be seen that rod section 41 of strut 32 and sleeve 42, through connections at 32 and 45, are adapted for motor extension; said rod section 41 passing through an elongated slot 54 in sleeve 42 to allow of upward swinging of ironing board end section 37 with respect to central section 22 for purposes to be described. By reason of the fixed length of strut 33' the related ironing board end section 36 may not be upwardly swung. However, when end section 37 is in coplanar relationship with central section 22, head 43 will abut against the upper inner end of the bore of said sleeve 42 in which condition strut 32 is of like effective length as strut 33.

Each ironing board section 36,37, as central section 22, is fabricated of a top plate-forming section 55,56, respectively, as of suitable gage metal, and having rigidifying normally depending flanges 57,58, respectively. End section 37 is of general quadrilateral shape but is cut off at one corner along line 59 which is substantially oblique with respect to said section 37 for developing a major portion 60, and a minor, corner portion 61; said latter being hinged to the former by an elongated straight hinge 62 extending along cut offline 59. By means of hinge 62 corner portion 61 may be swung into planarwise, parallel underlying relationship with respect to major portion 37 to develop a customary ironing board tapered end for facilitating the ironing of shirts, shirt collars, pants cuffs, shirt sleeves and the like, which may be easily slipped over or fitted upon such tapered portion. Corner portion 61 is maintained in either of its two attitudes with respect to major portion 60 by means of a latching mechanism, indicated generally by 63, which comprises an elongated latch arm 64, the inner end of which is bifurcated, as at 65, for swingable engagement by means of a pin 66, with the proximate end of arm 47 which is suitably cross sectionally reduced (see FIGS. 14) and Thus, latching arm 64 is presented beneath end section 37 for swingable movement within a plane substantially parallel therewith. At its other end, latch arm 64 is free and adjacent such end is fixed to a latching finger 67 which is substantially axially normal to said latch arm 64, but is relatively short, being of such length as to project locking within either of two openings 68,69 of a double-keeper 70 formed of suitable strap material and fixed to the undersurface of corner portion 61 adjacent its normally rearward edge and in axially normal relationship in immediate proximity to its end edge. As may best be seen in FIG. 13, when corner section 61 is in extended condition planarwise aligned with major portion 60, latching finger 67 will be received within opening of keeper 70 upon swinging of latch arm 64. When one desires to fold corner portion beneath major portion 60, latch arm 64 is swung away from keeper and toward central section 22. Thereupon corner portion 61 is swung about hinge 62 into folded condition in which state keeper opening 69 is then presented for receiving latching finger 67 upon limited return swinging of latch 64 (see FIG. 13). Thus, by latch arm 64 and keeper 70, a very positive, yet simple manipulatable lock is provided for maintaining corner portion 61 reliably and securely in either of its two positions.

Ironing board b may be provided with a customary cover 71 with one end having conventional corner loops (not shown) for engaging the end corner portions of end section 37 and with the other end being drawn beneath end section 36 and centrally secured to a tension spring 72 which is in turn tied to a drawstring 73; the innner end of which latter is passed through a guide bracket 74 provided on frame 35 for securement to strut 33' by means of a connector 75. Thus, it will be noted that when end section 36 is swung about hinge 35 into coplanar relationship with central section 22, cover 71 will be tnesioned by means of drawstring 73 and spring 72 for maintaining cover 71 in snug engagement upon board b.

In view of the foregoing it will be seen that ironing board b is adapted by means of novel support structure c for movement into operative or expanded position (FIGS. 3 and 5) wherein the major portion of board b is disposed forwardly of the opened casing k whereby a user in seated position as upon a chair 76 may dispose ones legs beneath board b so as to comfortably address iron d to the work; and said board b is equally easily moved into retracted or inoperative position (FIG. 2) wherein central section 22 will be in planarwise parallel disposition to bottom wall 2 and with end sections 36,37 being downwardly swung into substantially vertical position so that the casing k may be closed. The dimension of central section 22 relative to bottom wall 2 is such as to allow end sections 36,37 to be encompassed within a volume projected from bottom wall 2.

The portion of shaft 31 proximate the end engaging strut 33' engages the upper end of a lever 77 which extends downwardly and laterally outwardly of line 26; there being a spacer 78 carried on said shaft 31 between arm 18 and said level 77. At its lower end, lever 77 is pivotally connected as by a pin 79 to the normally rearward end of a brace 80; which latter normally for wardly of pin 79 is mounted upon the projecting end of a shaft 81 extending transversely of upright 14 being journalled in openings (not shown) formed in the opposed lateral walls thereof; being proximate the lower end of said upright 14 and axially parallel to shaft 27 (FIG. 8). Said brace 80 is of generally flat character having a lower marginal reinforcing flange 82 and being of such length so as to project forwardly and downwardly of upright 14 when apparatus A is in operative position; there being a show 83 mounted on the forward end portion of said brace 80 for establishing firm engagement with the support surface. In its under portion, adjacent to, and forwardly of, its connection to shaft 81, brace 80 is contoured to form an indentation 84 for engaging the shoulder s of a link 85 (FIGS. 8 and 9) when said link 85 is in extended position, for purposes described below; said brace 80 serving to lock link 85 against inadvertent swinging.

Link 85 is angulated having a lower portion 86 pivotally engaged at its lower end extremity to the adjacent portion of flange 6, as by a pin 87; said link 85 also having an upper portion 88 which, in its upper extremity, is secured to a slide pin 89 extending into a vertical slideway 90 formed in the web of a channel member m fixed upon the adjacent forward face of upright 14; said pin 89 being vertically reciprocally movable therein; there being an enlarged head 91 carried upon the inner end of pin 89. A spacer 92 is carried on the stem of said pin 89 between link 85 and upright 14. Cooperating with link 85 is a companion control link 93 being of general arcuated contour with its upper end portion 94 being pivotally engaged by a pin 95 to a boss 96 provided on link 85; said link 93 having a lower portion 97 swingably secured at its extremity to flange 7 of closure 4 as by a pin 98. The configuration of control links 85,93 permits of snug accommodation of the same within the spacing provided when casing k is in closed condition.

Said pivot pin 95 projects rearwardly beyond link 93 and is fixed to the extreme lower end portion 99 of a spring counterbalance 100 of the self-coiling type having a coil 101; said coil 101 being suitably carried upon the forward face of a stabilizing member 30. A guide 102 is fixed upon the adjacent portion of member m (FIG. 11) for directing the free end of spring 100 from the coil 101 downwardly adjacent the proximate side face of upright 14.

As may best be seen in FIGS. 8 and 12, stabilizing member 30 is of flat plate-like character, being pivotally engaged to the rearward face of upright 14 as by a pin 103, and in its upper portion laterally of upright 14, said stabilizer 30 is engaged to the lower end of a coil spring 104, the upper end of which is secured upon shaft 16. Upwardly of pivot pin 103 stabilizer member 30 is provided with tongue 29 for extension through opening 28 in link 26 when apparatus A is in operative condition. Said stabilizer 30 at its lateral end opposite tongue 29 is contoured to form an upwardly opening hook 105 for purposes presently appearing. It will thus be seen that by reason of spring 104, stabilizer 30 will be urged for directing tongue 29 for reception within opening 28.

It will be observed (see FIG. 8) that with closure sections 3,4 in open condition, links 85,93 will be extended and with slide pin 89 at the lower limit of its travel, spring 100 will be under maximum stress, with its extended portion being at its greatest length. Said links 85,93 are maintained against inadvertent movement under bias of spring 100 by abutment of brace 80 upon shoulder s. Upon movement of ironing board b into inoperative position with consequent downward and rearward rocking of support arm 18, lever 77 will cause brace 80 to be swung upwardly with engagement being lost between brace 80 and shoulder s (see FIG. 9). In such condition, closure sections 3,4 are disposed for easy upward swinging movement toward each other into casing-closed condition and with such movement being assisted by spring 100 which upon coiling will provide energy for urging slide pin 89 upwardly within slideway 90 so that the normally lower portions 86,97 of links 85,93 respectively will thus be drawn upwardly.

From the foregoing the operation of support structure should be apparent; it being observed that upon opening of casing k said support structure 0 is initially operated to present board b in expanded position prior to manipulating the support linkage lfor iron d and that upon termination of use of ironing apparatus A support structure 0 is operated to return board b to collapsed or inoperative position subsequent to corresponding manipulating of support linkage l and immediately prior to casing closing. With ironing board b in retracted condition, as shown in FIG. 2, the user will lightly grip the forward side edges of end sections 36,37 and lift same laterally outwardly while pulling forwardly, which movement causes support arm 18 to be swung upwardly and forwardly about shaft 16 which thus raises board b spacedly above the upper end of upright I4 (FIG. 3) while carrying same forwardly. As board end sections 36,37 are swung laterally struts 32,33 will swivel about their respective end sections; it being noted that shaft 31 is travelling with support arm 18 and thereby limited in its rotative movement through the operation of lever 77 and brace 80 so as to assure stabilization of struts 32,33 in board-supporting disposition. As shaft 31 is moved upwardly with support arm 18, an upward pulling will be effected upon lever 77 which is carried therewith and the latter in turn will cause an upward swinging of the rearward end of brace 80 about its shaft 81 into position shown in FIGS. 5, 8 and 9, wherein brace 80 will be inclined downwardly and forwardly to present shoe 83 in firm surface engagement and with indentation 84 lockingly engaging link 85. The upward and forward travel of ironing board b will cause link 26 to swing upwardly and forwardly about shaft 27 moving relatively with respect to tongue 29 until the same projects lockingly through opening 28 by which engagement further swinging of link 26 is restricted and the same is secured firmly so that further forward travel of board b is inhibited. Thus, normally when apparatus A is in collapsed condition, tongue 29 will abut the adjacent face of link 26 as will be shown more fully hereinbelow.

As presented for usage, board b is stable, being resistant to unauthorized twisting, tilting, or other unsteadiness and is conveniently presented substantially beyond casing k for the comfort of the operator.

To return ironing board b to inoperative or collapsed condition a reverse movement is required in that the user will lightly grip the forward edges of end sections 36,37 and push rearwardly thereon; said tongue 29 having been swung from engaged position within opening 28 by reason of downward pressure upon hook 105 through weight of iron d and its support linkage engaged thereupon. Thus, stabilizer member 30 will be swung upwardly at its tongue-like end for removal of same so as to unlatch support structure 0 and thus permit support arm 18 to swing rearwardly and downwardly into substantially horizontal disposition thereby causing central section 22 to be brought into substantially planar parallel relationship to bottom wall 2. Such action will effect a downwardly pushing upon lever 77 which in turn will cause a downward swinging of brace 80 about its rearward end so as to remove shoe 83 from engagement with the support surface and break the lock between brace indentation 84 and link 85', said lever 77 and brace 80 thus swinging into position wherein said brace 80 is immediately adjacent the side face of upright 14 and inwardly of bracket 12 (see FIG. 9). As central section 22 moves into lowered position end sections 36,37 will swing downwardly about their respective hinges, through gravity, since struts 32,33 are freed for swiveling action to lie beneath central section 22.

The foregoing demonstrates the simplicity of support structure c for permitting facile movement of ironing board b between operative or expanded condition and retracted or stored condition; with the inherent coaction of components rendering said system easily manipulative by the average housewife without strain and while in a comfortable sitting position.

Iron d together with its support linkage l and the related raising and lowering mechanism f are supported upon a tubular post 106 axially parallel to upright 14 and mounted upon the horizontal flange of bracket 12 in abutment on one side surface of base member 13. Post 106 is relatively short and received within its upper end is the lower end of a mounting rod 107 which supports an upwardly extending flat mounting plate 108 to one face of which is fixed the raising and lowering mechanism identified broadly as f hereinabove, and which is suitably enclosed by a housing 109. Said mechanismfincludes a prime mover or motor 110 having a drive shaft 111 for connection to a gear box 112. Provided on the side face of gear box 112 is a pair of upper and lower microswitches 113,114 being located on opposite sides of a shaft 115 suitably interconnected with motor drive shaft 111 within gear box 112 and operated responsively thereto. Fixed upon shaft 115 is a cam 116 for rotation therewith; said microswitches 113,114 each being normally urged into circuit closed condition, with alternate opening being effected upon engagement between cam 116 and the related switch 113,114, as the case may be. Each microswitch 113,114 is in circuit with motor 110.

Fixed upon cam 116 is the lower end of a spring link 117, the upper end of which is secured on a pin 118 fixed at its opposite end portion centrally of swing arm 119; the lower end of the latter is pivotally fixed upon mounting plate 108 and the upper end is pivotally engaged as by a pin 120 in the upper portion of a support link 121 which in cross section is of angle shape having a right angle flange 122 which terminates at its upper end spacedly from the end extremity of said link 121, as at 123. Engaged to the lower end of link 121 is the upper end of a companion swing arm 124 the lower end of which is fixed upon mounting plate 108 and more particularly as upon a flange 125 integral therewith. As may best be seen in FIG. 17, companion swing arm 124 is urged upwardly by a spring 126, the lower end of which is connected, as within an opening, centrally of said arm 124; and the upper end of said spring 126 is fixed upon a small housing 127 of mounting plate 108.

Pivoted upon support link 121 in its upper end portion on its face opposite that to which swing arm 119 is engaged, is the normally lower end of a base link 128 of the iron support linkage l. Swingably carried upon said base link 128 proximate its said normally lower end, by a pin p, is a latch plate 129 having a hook 130 for engaging a locking pin 131 fixed at the upper extremity of support link 121 and in axial normal relationship thereto.

At its normally upper end base link 128 is swingably engaged to a generally channel-shaped connector 132, being fabricated preferably of sheet stock, having spaced apart registering side plates 133,133 which are interconnected in their normally upper side edges centrally by a short web 134. Pivotally engaged between the normally forward ends of said side plates 133,133 is the normally lower end of an intermediate support link 135 which at its normally upper end is provided with a clevis arrangement 136 for hinged securement proximate the normally upper end of a forearm 137 which is of tubular construction and with its end remote from clevis arrangement 136 being provided with a socket member (not shown) for receiving a ball (not shown) which connects forearm 137 to iron d by means of a pivot link 138 the lower end of which is suitably connected to the handle 139 of iron d.

Connector 132, at its end remote from its connection to support link 135, is pivotally engaged to the normally lower end of the base portion 140 of a tension rod 141, which at its end is pivoted to the normally upper end extremity of forearm 137, as at 142. By reason of the tubular character of forearm 137, support link 135, and base link 128, a cord (not shown) may be directed therethrough to iron d for providing current thereto. In this connection, note should be taken that apparatus A may be easily connected to a convenient source of electrical power as provided by the custom ary wall outlet through the usual cord which may have a socket for engaging the plug 143 provided for exposure through the upper wall of a housing, indicated generally by 144, for disposition coveringly of the raising and lower mechanism f. Intermediate support arm 135 at its normally lower end immediately beyond the engagement thereof to connector 132 carries a cam follower 145 which is adapted for engagement with the confronting side face of base link 128 as iron support linkage l moves into and from operative position (see FIGS. 5 and 6). Said intermediate link 135 has mounted thereon a hook 146, the free end of which is receivable within a socket 147 formed within iron d through the engagement of which said iron d may be mounted for suspension when linkage l is in collapsed or stored condition (see FIG. 7).

Iron d is of conventional type, being either a dry or steam iron, and is qualified only to the extent of effecting engagement with pivot link 138 and the provision of an electric switch 148 (see FIG. 22) operated by a hand lever 149 conveniently located on iron handle 139. Switch 148 is normally in circuit upon position, but when hand lever 149 is depressed, switch 148 is moved into circuit closed condition for energizing motor 110 of iron raising and lowering mechanismfto lower iron d onto the upper surface of ironing board b. When hand lever 149 is released, iron d will be automatically raised in a reverse manner,

The operation of iron linkage I may best be understood with respect to FIGS. 3 and 7 wherein the same is illustrated in stored or inoperative position, while FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the linkage l in extended position for presenting iron d for use. With casing k in open condition, and with ironing board b presented for use, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, and as described hereinabove, iron support linkage I is exposed for manipulation. It will be seen that in such state, support link 121 is in lowered condition, with base link 128 downwardly swung proximate said support link 121. Connector 132 is rocked so that the lower ends of intermediate link 135 and rod 141 progress from points adjacent post 106 upwardly and forwardly in the general direction of upright 14 but on the side thereof proximate side wall 4 (see FIG. 3); with forearm 137 being immediately proximate upright 14, but with such linkage being located above bottom wall 2 spacedly from the porximate hinge so that movement of side wall 4 upwardly into case-closed condition and downwardly therefrom into case-open condition is without contact. Iron d is thus suspended through cooperation of hook 146 and socket 147 so as to be compactly nested within the folded linkage I. By this arrangement iron d will be in substantially centered relationship within the confined volume when casing k is closed.

With the linkage l in stored position, clevis 136 will engage hook 105 of stabilizing member 30 (see FIG. 12). This engagement serves the dual purpose of promoting the rigidity of linkage l in collapsed condition as well as providing a force acting against the bias of spring 104 of stabilizing member 30 maintaining tongue 29 in unlatched condition so as not to interfere with elevation of ironing board b. It will thus be seen that upon loss of engagement between clevis 136 and hook 105 tongue 29 is then freed for locking with link 26 for stabilizing ironing board b.

When ironing board b is in fully retracted condition as shown in FIG. 2, iron linkage l is entirely obscured by the ironing board sections and thus snugly received within the spacing developed by the same with bottom wall 2. a

With ironing board b in fully extended, operative position (FIG. 7) the user will grip forearm 137 and after lifting same to release clevis 136 from hook 105 effect a slight pulling in a direction toward casing side wall 4, with consequent rotation of mounting rod 107 about post 106 for sufficient clearance of board b. Thereupon a lifting force is applied to cause base support arm 128 to be swung into upward position (see FIG. 18) with latch 129 locked upon pin 131. With such upward swinging of base link 128 connector 132 will thus relatively rock about its point of attachment to said base link 128 and thereby present imtermediate link 135, rod 141, and forearm 137 into operative position as shown in FIG. 5. The user then'merely releases iron d from hook 146 thereby permitting said iron d to be presented above board b.

In order to effect ironing, the operator will grip iron handle 139 and press lever 149 for closing the ciruit to energize motor 110 of the ironing raising and lowering mechanism ffor lowering iron d which will be maintained in such lowered, operating condition as long as lever 149 maintains switch 148 in closed condition. Upon release of pressure upon lever 149, linkage I will immediately cause upward movement of iron d from board b for suspension while the operator arranges the work.

Upon energization of motor 110, drive shaft 111 will be rotated with consequent rotation of shaft 115 causing cam 116 to engage microswitches 113 for effecting opening thereof and with spring link 117 being elevated; said latter thus effecting an upward pushing upon swing arm 119 with consequent raising of support link 121 wherein the entire linkage I will be raised. Lower swing arm 124 through bias of spring 126 will assist such upward shifting of support link 121. Thus, said iron d will remain in raised position until the user regrips said iron d and applies pressure on lever 149 thereby returning switch 148 to closed condition so that with consequent rotation of shaft 115, cam 116 will be brought into circuit-opening engagement with microswitch 114 causing an opening of the same with attendant downward pulling upon spring link 117 for bringing the iron d returningly to the ironing board b for operation.

Referring to FIG. 22 which illustrates the control circuit of the present invention, the iron heating element is shown diagrammatically at 151 with its temperature control at 152. Switch 148 is of the double pole type, having poles 153,154, with hand lever 149 being presented therebetween. Hand lever 149 is normally urged into circuit closing engagement with pole 153 through the bias of a spring (not shown) so that the circuit to pole 154 is normally open. Motor and iron 11 are adapted to be energized from a conventional source of power, such as the usual household supply, through a conductor plugged into the customary receptacle. One side of motor 110 is connected to power source S and the other side connected in parallel relationship by conductor 155 to microswitches 113,114. Upon engagement of hand lever 149 to effect circuit closing engagement with pole 154, motor 110 is energized thereby effecting rotation of shaft with consequent movement of cam 116 to cause circuit opening condition of microswitch 114 and microswitch 113 is thus returned to circuit closed condition. By such action, iron 0' is lowered into operative position upon ironing board b. This condition will prevail until the operator releases hand lever 149 to effect circuit closure through pole 153 with consequent swinging of cam 116 through an 180 arc by reason of rotation of shaft 115 with resultant elevation of iron d.

To return apparatus A to its compact closed condition, the operator first places iron d upon hook 146, then releases latch plate 129, whereupon base link 128 will swing forwardly and downwardly with connector 132 rocking about its central pivot axis from the position shown in FIG. 5 to that shown in FIG. 7. With cam follower 145 being removed from engagement with the cam-forming surface of link 128 and being disposed upon bottom wall 2 when the folding action has been completed. It is understood that linkage 1 during such action is swung slightly about post 106 for suitably clearing ironing board b to avoid interference. When the same is thus folded, it is returningly swung toward upright 14 beneath board b, and with clevis 136 being engaged upon hook 105 of stabilizer member 30 for promoting disengagement of tongue 29 from link 26 so that the ironing board retracting procedure may be instituted. After folding ironing board b into the position shown in FIG. 2, as above described, side walls 3,4 of easing k are then swung upwardly to permit locking of the same by latch members 9,10.

Apparatus A is thus an entirely self-contained unit which is easily manipulated and operated by the average housewife. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, it will be seen that the apparatus is so designed that the user may position a chair 156 adjacent the closed casing k, as in the zone indicated 157, and which is laterally offset from the transverse center line of easing k. While so seated, an individual may open casing k and effect expansion of apparatus A into full operative condition and while in the same seating position, collapse said apparatus and close said casing k.

The relatively lightweight and compact character of apparatus A results from a multiplicity of carefully contrived factors. However, the disposition of upright 14, base member 13, and post 106 with its support structure to one side of bottom wall 2, presents the major portion of the latter for forming the base of a volume for receiving the iron linkage I when retracted. Also, the novel provision of connector 132 with rod 141 and link pivoted thereon conduces to easy foldability of said linkage I, while providing reliable firmness during operation of iron d. The unique coaction between said linkage l and stabilizer member 30 through clevis 136 and hook 105 presents a simplified substantially automatic latch arrangement assuring of stability of ironing board b when in position of use and facile collapsing of the same into retracted condition. Also, it should be observed that by means of spring counterbalance 100 the swingability of side walls 3,4 is provided while causing same to be firm when in open, apparatus-supporting position. Another novel feature is that the raising and lowering mechanismfdoes not involve reciprocal vertical movement of the motor but merely of a support link 121 thereby simplifying the structure markedly.

Having described my invention what I claim and desire to obtain by Letters Patent is:

1. An ironing apparatus for disposition upon a support surface comprising means defining a carrying case having a base wall and a pair of complementary closure sections; each of said sections incorporating a side panel portion hingedly engaged to said base wall along opposed margins for swingable movement of said sections toward each other into case-closed or carrying position and away from each other into case-opened condition wherein said side panel portions are in coplanar alignment with said base wall upon the support surface, a multi-sectional foldable ironing board, an ironing board support fixed on said base wall, means interengaging said ironing board and said ironing board support for movement of said board between extended, operative condition when said case is opened, and collapsed, inoperative condition when said case is closed, an iron, an iron support linkage having a normally upper end and a normally lower end, said iron support linkage being engaged at its normally upper end to said iron, a linkage support mounted on said base, said iron support linkage being pivotally engaged at its normally lower end upon said linkage support, a motor fixed in said linkage support, and means interengaging said motor and said iron support linkage for effecting move ment of said iron support linkage with said motor stationary.

2. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means interengaging said motor and said iron support linkage comprising a cam driven by said motor, a spring link engaged to said cam at one of its ends, a swing arm engaged to the other end of said spring link, said swing arm being engaged to said iron support linkage at its normally lower end.

3. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by switch means provided on said iron for controlling said motor, there being conductor means between said switch means and said motor.

4. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said iron support linkage comprising a base link having a normally upper end and a lower end and being pivotally engaged at its lower end upon said support linkage, an intermediate link engaged to the normally upper end of said base link, and a forearm engaged to the opposite end of said intermediate link, said iron being carried at the end of said forearm remote from said intermediate link.

5. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 4 and further characterized by said intermediate link being comprised of a support link and a tension rod, a connector pivotally engaged substantially centrally of its length upon the normally upper end of said base link and being pivotally engaged at its opposite ends to the adjacent ends of said support link and tension rod, said sup- 7 port link and said tension rod at their ends remote from said connector being engaged to said forearm.

6. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 5 and further characterized by said support link of said intermediate link having a cam follower provided on its normally lower end, said base link having a side confronting said cam follower to define a cam for movement therealong of said cam follower during movement of said iron support linkage between raised and lowered conditions.

7. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 6 and further characterized by a switch provided on said iron for controlling operation of said motor, said base link, support link and forearm being of tubular character, a conductor extending through said forearm, support link, and base link from said switch, and electrical connector means engaging the end of said conductor remote from said iron.

8. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said ironing board comprising a central section and a pair of end sections, each of said end sections being hingedly engaged to said central section along opposed side margins whereby said end sec tions are swingable between planar aligned condition with said central section for presenting said board in operative condition and in planar normal condition thereto, one of said end sections comprising a major portion and a three-sided corner portion, hinge means swingably mounting said corner portion on said related end section and being disposed along a hinge axis forming an acute angle with the longitudinal center line of the ironing board, and latching means for securing said corner portion in either planar aligned or planar parallel disposition with respect to said major portion.

9. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 8 and further characterized by said latching means comprising a latching arm having an inner end and an outer end, said latching arm being pivotally engaged at its inner end upon said major portion with its outer end extending beyond the hinge means and being free, and a keeper member mounted on said corner portion for engagement by said latching arm in either of said two selected dispositions.

10. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 9 and further characterized by said latch arm having a latching finger proximate its free end, said keeper having at least two openings adapted to receive said finger depending upon the disposition of said corner portion.

11. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 10 and further characterized by said keeper being of strap material and fixed to the under surface of said corner portion in substantially axially parallel relationship to the side edges of said board and being disposed in immediate adjacency to the proximate end of said board.

12. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means engaging said ironing board and said ironing board support comprising a swing arm pivotally mounted on one side of the upper end portion of said ironing board support for movement between inoperative, downwardly swung condition, and operative, upwardly swung condition, a link pivotally mounted on said ironing board support being engaged at its upper end to said ironing board, and a latch member swingably mounted on said ironing board support between said swing arm and said link and cooperative means on said latch member and said link for interengagement when said ironing board is in operative condition.

13. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 12 and further characterized by said link having an opening, said latch member having a tongue receivable within said opening, and means biasing said tongue into reception within said opening for stabilizing said ironing board in operative condition.

14. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 13 and further characterized by said latch member incorporating a hook engageable with said iron support linkage when the latter is in inoperative condition.

15. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means engaging said ironing board and said ironing board support comprising a swing arm mounted pivotally on the upper end portion of said ironing board support for movement between collapsed, inoperative condition, and upwardly swung, operative, ironing board support condition, a lever swingably connected at its upper end to said swing arm upwardly of its connection to said ironing board support, a brace pivotally mounted on said ironing board support in its lower portion, said lever being pivotally connected at its lower end portion to the proximate end first and second control links mutually engaged in their upper end portions and having lower end portions respectively engaged to the adjacent closure section.

16. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 15 and further characterized by a slideway provided on the normally outer face of said ironing board support, said first control link mounting a guide pin in its upper end portion receivable within said slideway for travel reciprocally therealong during opening and closing movement of said case, said first control link having a lateral boss, said second control link being engaged at its upper end pivotally to said boss on said first control link, and resilient means biasing said control links into upward, case-closed condition.

17. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 16 and further characterized by said first control link having a shoulder engaging said brace when the latter is in downward, operative condition for resisting premature closing action of said control links.

18. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 17 and further characterized by said resilient means being a self-winding, coil spring mounted adjacent the upper portion of said support arm and having a free end exofsaid brace, means connected to said closure sections 5 t ding d a dly in engagement with said control 

1. An ironing apparatus for disposition upon a support surface comprising means defining a carrying case having a base wall and a pair of complementary closure sections; each of said sections incorporating a side panel portion hingedly engaged to said base wall along opposed margins for swingable movement of said sections toward each other into case-closed or carrying position and away from each other into case-opened condition wherein said side panel portions are in coplanar alignment with said base wall upon the support surface, a multi-sectional foldable ironing board, an ironing board support fixed on said base wall, means interengaging said ironing board and said ironing board support for movement of said board between extended, operative condition when said case is opened, and collapsed, inoperative condition when said case is closed, an iron, an iron support linkage having a normally upper end and a normally lower end, said iron support linkage being engaged at its normally upper end to said iron, a linkage support mounted on said base, said iron support linkage being pivotally engaged at its normally lower end upon said linkage support, a motor fixed in said linkage support, and means interengaging said motor and said iron support linkage for effecting movement of said iron support linkage with said motor stationary.
 2. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means interengaging said motor and said iron support linkage comprising a cam driven by said motor, a spring link engaged to said cam at one of its ends, a swing arm engaged to the other end of said spring link, said swing arm being engaged to said iron support linkage at its normally lower end.
 3. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by switch means provided on said iron for controlling said motor, there being conductor means between said switch means and said motor.
 4. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said iron support linkage comprising a base link having a normally upper end and a lower end and being pivotally engaged at its lower end upon said support linkage, an intermediate link engaged to the normally upper end of said base link, and a forearm engaged to the opposite end of said intermediate link, said iron being carried at the end of said forearm remote from said intermediate link.
 5. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 4 and further characterized by said intermediate link being comprised of a support link and a tension rod, a connector pivotally engaged substantially centrally of its length upon the normally upper end of said base link and being pivotally engaged at its opposite ends to the adjacent ends of said support link and tension rod, said support link and said tension rod at their ends remote from said connector being engaged to said forearm.
 6. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 5 and further characterized by said support link of said intermediate link having a cam follower provided on its normally lower end, said base link having a side confronting said cam follower to define a cam for movement therealong of said cam follower during movement of said iron support linkage between raised and lowered conditions.
 7. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 6 and further characterized by a switch provided on said iron for controlling operation of said motor, said base link, support link and forearm being of tubular character, a conductor extending through said forearm, support link, and base link from said switch, and electrical connector means engaging the end of said conductor remote from said iron.
 8. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said ironing board comprising a central section and a pair of end sections, each of said end sections being hingedly engaged to said central section along opposed side margins whereby said end sections are swingable between planar aligned condition with said central section for presenting said board in operative condition and in planar normal condition thereto, one of said end sections comprising a major portion and a three-sided corner portion, hinge means swingably mounting said corner portion on said related end section and being disposed along a hinge axis forming an acute angle with the longitudinal center line of the ironing board, and latching means for securing said corner portion in either planar aligned or planar parallel disposition with respect to said major portion.
 9. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 8 and further characterized by said latching means comprising a latching arm having an inner end and an outer end, said latching arm being pivotally engaged at its inner end upon said major portion with its outer end extending beyond the hinge means and being free, and a keeper member mounted on said corner portion for engagement by said latching arm in either of said two selected dispositions.
 10. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 9 and further characterized by said latch arm having a latching finger proximate its free end, said keeper having at least two openings adapted to receive said finger depending upon the disposition of said corner portion.
 11. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 10 and further characterized by said keeper being of strap material and fixed to the under surface of said corner portion in substantially axially parallel relationship to the side edges of said board and being disposed in immediate adjacency to the proximate end of said board.
 12. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means engaging said ironing board and said ironing board support comprising a swing arm pivotally mounted on one side of the upper end portion of said ironing board support for movement between inoperative, downwardly swung condition, and operative, upwardly swung condition, a link pivotally mounted on said ironing board support being engaged at its upper end to said ironing board, and a latch member swingably mounted on said ironing board support between said swing arm and said link and cooperative means on said latch member and said link for interengagement when said ironing board is in operative condition.
 13. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 12 and further characterized by said link having an opening, said latch member having a tongue receivable within said opening, and means biasing said tongue into reception within said opening for stabilizing said ironing board in operative condition.
 14. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 13 and further characterized by said latch member incorporating a hook engageable with said iron support linkage when the latter is in inoperative condition.
 15. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 1 and further characterized by said means engaging said ironing board and said ironing board support comprising a swing arm mounted pivotally on the upper end portion of said ironing board support for movement between collapsed, inoperative condition, and upwardly swung, operative, ironing board support condition, a lever swingably connected at its upper end to said swing arm upwardly of its connection to said ironing board support, a brace pivotally mounted on said ironing board support in its lower portion, said lever being pivotally connected at its lower end portion to the proximate end of said brace, means connected to said closure sections interengaging said brace when said ironing board is in operative, extended condition, said means comprising first and second control links mutually engaged in their upper end portions and having lower end portions respectively engaged to the adjacent closure section.
 16. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 15 and further characterized by a slideway provided on the normally outer Face of said ironing board support, said first control link mounting a guide pin in its upper end portion receivable within said slideway for travel reciprocally therealong during opening and closing movement of said case, said first control link having a lateral boss, said second control link being engaged at its upper end pivotally to said boss on said first control link, and resilient means biasing said control links into upward, case-closed condition.
 17. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 16 and further characterized by said first control link having a shoulder engaging said brace when the latter is in downward, operative condition for resisting premature closing action of said control links.
 18. An ironing apparatus as defined in claim 17 and further characterized by said resilient means being a self-winding, coil spring mounted adjacent the upper portion of said support arm and having a free end extending downwardly in engagement with said control links. 